Report: Leeds United star Caleb Ekuban likely to leave, due to agent clause

Caleb Ekuban is closer to leaving Leeds United permanently than ever before after Turkish outlet Aksam have claimed that Ekuban’s agent stands to receive an enormous figure – if a deal goes through.

The report claims Ekuban, 24, will join Trabzonspor permanently. This comes just days after the in-form striker said he would discuss his future at the end of the season – as quoted by Fotospor.

Ekuban left Leeds last summer on loan after failing to make an impact at Elland Road. Signed by director of football Victor Orta, the striker scored just two goals in 22 games for the Whites.

This season, though, he has been a revelation. Ekuban has scored seven goals and created three more, playing in a variety of positions. The attacker has been used mostly out wide, but also up front and in the 10 role.

(Photo by Serhat Cagdas/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)

He has a contract at Leeds, but Aksam claim Trabzonspor will have to spend around £900,000 to sign him permanently. But it is the striker’s agent fee – a whopping £650,000 – that makes him likelier to leave.

TBR’s view

Perhaps Ekuban’s form is worth another go at Leeds. His ability to play in numerous positions, pace and power and goals are all attributes Bielsa wants from his attacking players.

But for his agent to be receiving more than two thirds of the permanent transfer fee is ridiculous. It means that Ekuban, who has been called up by Ghana, is more than likely to leave Leeds for good.

It will be a shame given his current form, but he has made a name for himself in Turkey and even broken into the national team. Even if he did return to Leeds, he would be behind Kemar Roofe and Patrick Bamford.